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It is difficult to think of a profession that is more important than teaching. For those who choose to dedicate themselves to the field and find ways to overcome obstacles to succeed, the profession offers many rewards. Christopher Caldwell, a history and government teacher at Loyola Blakefield High School in Towson, MD, tells us about his path to the classroom and gives some advice for those considering a similar choice.

(Photo Courtesy of Chris Caldwell)

What led you to consider teaching?

“I honestly wasn’t sure what I wanted to do when I entered college at Xavier University in Cincinnati. I had aspirations of being the next great sports broadcaster, but online journalism did not spark my interest like I had anticipated. I always loved kids and enjoyed my history classes, so I decided to pursue a career in secondary education. I immediately felt comfortable in the classroom and knew that it was where I belonged.”

In what ways would you say that you have been able to apply the concepts you’ve learned through your own education to the classroom?

“Naturally, my history courses in my undergraduate program have helped me master the content for the courses I teach at Loyola Blakefield, but my education as a whole provided me with more than I had anticipated. I was fortunate enough to experience the Jesuit tradition at Xavier, which is also embodied by both the teachers and students at Loyola Blakefield. ”

“The focus on “cura personalis,” or “care for the whole person,” at Loyola is evident everywhere on campus. My liberal arts education as an undergraduate and my pursuit of a liberal studies masters degree at Loyola University of Maryland have challenged me intellectually with a variety of classes I wouldn’t otherwise think to take. My education, at both Xavier and Loyola, has also enhanced me spiritually, spurring self-reflection and encouraging me to continually examine my role as a teacher, mentor and role model.”

“I am grateful that I was so well prepared to enter this career and look forward to pursuing additional degrees to be able to further myself as an educator, and cultivate more impactful relationships with our diverse student body.”

What advice would you give to job seekers considering a career in education?

“If I had to give advice to aspiring teachers, I would tell them to embrace and cherish the opportunities they are afforded in education. There can be challenges and frustrations, professionally and personally, but it is a unique profession that provides an opportunity to have such a genuine impact on the lives of not only a few, but potentially hundreds or thousands of people throughout the course of your career.”

Warren White is a freelance writer covering all things Baltimore. His work can be found on Examiner.com.